Exploring the Real-Life Locations of The Sopranos: Centanni’s Meat Market

In the pilot episode of The Sopranos, the iconic Satriale’s Pork Store appeared with a different name. This article delves into the real-life counterpart, Centanni’s Meat Market, and provides a detailed exploration of this filming location.

From Satriale’s to Centanni’s

The episode of The Sopranos that aired in 1999 featured Satriale’s Pork Store, which is now famously recognized as the butcher shop where Tony Soprano and his associates would frequent. However, it had a different moniker in the screenplay. The store was originally titled “Paeglu’s Meat Market.” One might wonder, where did the name ‘Satriale’s’ come from, and why has the real-world location retained ‘Centanni’s’?

Interestingly, when the show’s writers needed a butcher shop, they chose Satriale’s Pork Store, which was conveniently located at 1310 22nd Street in Middletown, New Jersey. This particular store, though fictionalized for the show, exists in reality and is still operational as of today. Fans of The Sopranos can visit this location to see where many of their favorite scenes were filmed.

A Real-World Butcher Shop

Centanni’s Meat Market is the real-life version of the fictional Satriale’s Pork Store. It opened its doors in the 1950s and has since become a well-known establishment in the region, primarily known as a butcher shop for its high-quality cuts of meat. The shop is still owned by the Centanni family, who have maintained its reputation as a reliable source for meats and other provisions for the local community.

The appearance of this location as Satriale’s in The Sopranos is a testament to the show's attention to detail and the use of authentic settings. Visitors to these locations can appreciate both the history and the modern-day operations of a place that has become deeply intertwined with the narrative of one of television's most iconic crime dramas.

Location as a Fan-Attraction

Centanni’s Meat Market is a popular attraction for fans of The Sopranos. Tourists and aficionados alike frequently visit to get a glimpse of a location that played a significant role in the show's portrayal of Tony Soprano and his associates. The store offers a unique experience, where one can observe the inner workings of a historic butcher shop and even purchase high-quality meats that are a direct connection to the show's sets.

For those planning a visit, it's important to note that the store is open from 7 AM to 2 PM on weekdays and closed on weekends. The building itself, which has been around for over half a century, exudes a period ambiance that aligns perfectly with the show's no-nonsense, gritty atmosphere. Fans who visit the store can take photos, explore the interior, and even meet some of the staff, who might be able to share stories from their experiences working in the scene of numerous Sopranos episodes.

Conclusion

The journey from Paeglu’s Meat Market in the script to Centanni’s Meat Market in reality highlights not only the real-world setting of the show but also the continued relevance of these locations. Whether you're a fan of The Sopranos or simply interested in the history of MiddLETown, exploring Centanni’s Meat Market can be a fascinating experience. It serves as a tangible link to the world that Tony Soprano and his associates inhabited.

As you walk through the doors of Centanni’s Meat Market, you step into a piece of television history. So, the next time you find yourself in Middletown, don’t miss the opportunity to pay a visit to this authentic Sopranos filming location and immerse yourself in the world of Tony Soprano.